Aeros sat cross-legged on his bed, gazing at the holographic display of his status window. Something was different. The usual mechanical responses of the Aetherial Codex System now felt... more refined. More fluent. Moreover, he was especially excited as he could now play with mana. He was already thinking about how he would use his magic.
Aetherial Codex System: User Status
Name: Aeros Cromwell
Age: 15
Bloodline: ???
Core Rank: Silver Core (Mid-Stage)
Mana Circles: 2
Affinity: Ice, Thunder
Abilities:
??? (Sealed)Enhanced Recovery??? (Sealed)Perception
Special Trait: The Forsaken Heir's Awakening (Condition Locked)
Attributes:
Strength: 30
Agility: 30
Endurance: 30
Intelligence: 40
Perception: 30
Battle Instinct: 50+
"System," Aeros muttered, narrowing his eyes. "You seem... different."
[Correct. The Aetherial Codex System has evolved.]
Aeros blinked in surprise. "Evolved? What does that mean?"
[The System has undergone an update due to your consistent training and battle experience. I thank you wholeheartedly. New features have been unlocked.]
A new tab appeared in the interface. [System Shop: Unlocked]
[Daily Quests: Unlocked]
"A shop?" Aeros rubbed his chin. "And quests too? You mean I can earn points and buy things?"
[Affirmative. You may now complete assigned daily tasks and earn points to spend in the System Shop.]
"Not bad." Aeros grinned. "Show me the shop."
A new interface unfolded before him, listing various items.
Basic Mana Control Manual – 100 Points
Low-Grade Healing Potion – 50 Points
Beginner Combat Techniques (Ice & Thunder) – 250 Points
Concealment Cloak – 300 Points
Mana Regeneration Pill – 150 Points
Aeros checked his balance. He had 500 Points from his recent battles and achievements.
"I'll take the Basic Mana Control Manual and Beginner Combat Techniques."
[Purchase successful. Items delivered to inventory.]
As soon as he accepted, knowledge flooded his mind—methods to refine mana flow, techniques to enhance elemental control, and ways to increase combat efficiency.
Meanwhile, Julius's Study
Inside Julius Cromwell's study, a group of nobles sat in tense discussion. Lys stood by his master's side, his usual carefree demeanor absent.
"The attack on my son was a declaration of war," Julius said, his voice dangerously calm. "House Duskbane has overstepped."
Lord Adrian crossed his arms. "If they dared send assassins now, what will they attempt next?"
Lady Selene sighed. "Aeros must leave for the academy as soon as possible. It will provide him a safer environment, away from Duskbane's reach."
Leon clenched his fists. "He's strong, but he's not invincible. The academy will also provide him proper training."
Julius nodded. "Preparations are already underway. I will ensure my son leaves with sufficient protection."
In the Training Grounds
Aeros stood in the dimly lit mana training chamber. He lifted his hand, channeling the mana within him, feeling the elements respond to his will.
"Let's see what I can do now."
He extended his palm. Crackling energy formed at his fingertips. Ice spread from his right hand, frost creeping along the floor, while arcs of lightning danced from his left.
"Not bad," he muttered, shifting between the two elements. The synergy felt natural, unlike before when it was purely instinct.
"Ahem."
A familiar voice made him turn. Ellie stood by the entrance, arms crossed, watching him with sharp eyes.
"You weren't this flashy before," she said, walking closer. "You want to explain?"
Aeros smirked. "Not really."
Ellie narrowed her eyes. "So, you suddenly learned to control two elements perfectly? You expect me to believe that?"
Aeros shrugged. "I'm a fast learner."
"Uh-huh." Ellie stepped closer, ice cracking beneath her boots. "So tell me, was it talent, or did you secretly steal some forbidden scrolls?"
"Wouldn't you like to know?" Aeros grinned.
Ellie slowly walked towards him, releasing her aura. " I demand an explanation, and I won't leave without it."
"What if I don't want to explain?"Aeros questioned playfully.
Seeing that he is no longer a weakling who would quiver under her aura, Eliie pouted.
She thought of a new way to persuade him. "Please tell me how you got this strong. I promise not to reveal your secrets to anyone. I swear on my Mana core." Just as she said that, there was a mana fluctuation in the air, and something entered the centre of their chest where their mana core was located.
Aeros remembered that whenever someone swore on the mana core, it would automatically make a contract and enter both parties. The one who breaks the promise made will have his/her core shattered, making it impossible to cultivate again.
Aeros sighed now that he was bound by the promise. He had to tell the truth
[Psst.. Kid, you can tell her the truth about the system, but make sure you don't tell her about your transmigration. Julius may think that an evil has possessed his son and execute you on the spot.]
Aeros gulped slightly thinking about that…